Intraoperative cytology of subependymoma.

摘要

The usefulness of intraoperative evaluation of central nervous system tumors by cytologic imprints or smearing is well recognized. In several histologic sub types, cellular characteristics are best appreciated in cytologic samples. Due to their rarity, there are some tumors with which cytologic experience is still scarce. Among them is subependymoma, a benign, slow-growing neoplasm that originates from the wall of the cerebral ventricles, more commonly the fourth, fol lowed by the lateral ventricles, third ventricle, septum pellucidum and spinal cord.1 Most cases are asympto matic, but ventricular obstruction can raise intracra-nial pressure, causing neurologic symptoms. Com plete surgical resection is considered curative; for this reason, the intraoperative diagnosis is important.